LGBT Detroit Expands HIV Programming to Reach Black Men

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In June, LGBT Detroit launched an initiative called Brother 2 Brother that’s geared toward helping Black men who have sex with men (MSM) address the issues of HIV and sexually transmitted infections, reports Pride Source.

The initiative is made possible in large part by a three-year grant from the Jewish Fund.

Brother 2 Brother consists of gatherings in which men can openly discuss sexual practices, relationship dynamics, racism, homophobia and other topics that influence their health and relationships.

“We are impressed with the organization’s thoughtful and focused outreach efforts and its motivation to address an issue that is often concealed within our community,” said Margo Pernick, executive director of The Jewish Fund. “LGBT Detroit has the leadership and track record to accomplish its objectives—we look forward to this exciting partnership.”

The name Brother 2 Brother is inspired by the iconic literary compilation Brother to Brother: New Writings by Black Gay Men, which was published in 1991; the anthology was started by Joseph Beam, who died of AIDS-related illness in 1988, and completed by Essex Hemphill, who died of AIDS-related illness in .

“LGBT Detroit has extensive experience and expertise in LGBTQ health, HIV/AIDS, and STIs,” said Danny Inman, program director of LGBT Detroit. “We engage in direct service provision, prevention, and health promotion programming, as well as structural, strategies aimed to reduce STI and HIV rates among LGBTQ communities.”